San Diego OKs $60 Million Flood Control Project

SAN DIEGO (AP) — The San Diego City Council has approved a $60 million plan to clear out clogged storm channels and creeks to prevent flooding.

The San Diego Union-Tribune reported the council voted Oct. 24 to approve a 20-year plan. Under a sweeping environmental permit, officials will be allowed to clear about 32 miles of waterways. The work of dredging up plants and sediment could begin next fall, if the plan receives state and federal approval and survives likely appeals.

The council granted an environmental permit covering all aspects of the project, to avoid the time-consuming process of getting permission to clear one waterway at a time.

Critics had argued that the work could damage sensitive wetlands and water quality, while supporters call the program a matter of public safety.